Police in Buckfastleigh and Ashburton are to be given new powers to keep the streets of the two communities alcohol-free as officials step up efforts to clamp down on anti-social behaviour. Teignbridge Council has announced that it will use the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 to give beat officers the right to confiscate alcohol from those they feel are causing a nuisance. Anyone defying the new rules risks arrest and an appearance in court. Buckfastleigh mayor Cllr Don Joint welcomed the development, saying it would do nothing to harm those who were not causing trouble but at the same time ensure that the police had the tools with which to do their job. 'It applies to just about every street in the town and it is something we have talked about for some time,' he said. 'It's a really good idea and it shows our determination to win back the streets of our town for those decent people who just want to go about their business without feeling intimidated or threatened.' The same reaction was to be found in Ashburton, where the new beat officer, PC Andy Dudley, has already used similar new powers to combat teenage drinkers. Since taking up post earlier this month, PC Dudley has made what he described as 'great use' of the ability to relieve underage drinkers of alcohol. In his monthly report to councillors, he revealed that he had already tipped away 70 cans of lager he had taken from youngsters who were found drinking in the streets. 'It's good news that we have an officer who is prepared to tackle these things,' said town clerk John Germon. The alcohol restrictions apply to more than 40 streets and public areas in Buckfastleigh and almost 30 in Ashburton. They include car parks, swimming pools and church grounds. The move is the latest strategy designed to bring an end to public disorder which has forced some residents not to leave their homes at night. Police should have the new powers by Christmas.
